Marquetry Oak Drop-leaf Side Table

Description:

Marquetry Oak Drop-leaf Side Table, Peter J. Sargent (American, 1839-1912),Cedar Rapids, Iowa, 1911, the round top inlaid with images of local landmarks and census data, stars, herringbone, sawtooth, and checkerboard pattern with four drop-leaves over a four-part ogee curved base with four carved paw feet on casters topped with carved shells, original surface, (minor imperfections),top dia. 34 1/4, ht. 30 1/2 in.



Provenance: Descended in the artist's family to the consignor.



Note: A self-taught craftsman, Peter J. Sargent took up the hobby of furniture making and marquetry after retiring from a career as a railroad engineer and mechanic. Having lived in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, at various points during his adult life, the New Hampshire native settled there for his final years, occupying his time with his craft. Known to have produced similar tables for friends, family, and the local Masonic lodge, Sargent designed and executed this table as a visual history of his adopted hometown.

Within the central circular portion of the tabletop appears the earliest history of Cedar Rapids. Sargent inlaid the name of the town along with date of its founding (1839) and depicted the earliest log cabins built by the first known European settlers. He used the outer portion of the table's main surface to depict the next generation of growth for the young Midwestern city. Illustrating buildings constructed by the town's earliest industrialists, real estate developers, and even journalists, Sargent touched on the vibrant river-powered, agriculture-based economy that developed across the upper Midwest in the second half of the 19th century. On the four drop-leaves, he continued this theme, concluding with population numbers for the city at its beginning, from the year Sargent first lived there as a young man, and the presumptive year of the table's construction.

Illustrating his surroundings with careful attention and skill, this self-taught craftsman epitomized the definition of folk art. His time, effort, and passion resulted in a piece of functional furniture that beautifully illustrates the history of his little-known but beloved hometown.

Estimate $3,000-5,000

minor losses and loosened areas to marquetry top, some wear to feet and base; a split in one ogee support halfway between base and top; a loss to one folding drop-leaf support.


The absence of a condition statement does not imply that the lot is in perfect condition or completely free from wear and tear, imperfections or the effects of aging. Condition requests can be obtained via email (lot inquiry button) or by telephone to the appropriate gallery location (Boston/617.350.5400 or Marlborough/508.970.3000). Any condition statement given, as a courtesy to a client, is only an opinion and should not be treated as a statement of fact. Skinner Inc. shall have no responsibility for any error or omission.

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